Ah, autumn! That time of year when the leaves change colour, the days get shorter, and the air gets that familiar crisp bite. It’s also the season of a classic dilemma: when exactly should you turn the heating on?

As soon as the temperature starts to dip, the debate begins – some people hold off as long as they can, while others can’t wait for that first blast of warm air from their radiators. But behind this debate, there are often practical concerns – are you trying to keep energy bills manageable, reduce your carbon footprint, or simply keep your home warm without breaking the bank? Let’s dive in.

How cold is too cold?

The golden rule is to turn on your heating when you start feeling chilly. This is especially important if you’ve got anyone in your household who’s older or has a medical condition. Keeping things cosy isn’t just about comfort – it’s also about safety. But many of us are balancing this with worries about rising energy costs, making it tempting to hold off as long as possible.

It seems most people try to delay turning on the heating, while others reach for the thermostat as soon as the cooler days of September arrive. Generally, many tend to switch on the heating once temperatures dip below 15°C. According to the Met Office, this usually happens around October – though an unexpected cold snap can definitely change those plans.

What if I turn it on earlier?

You might be wondering if it’s okay to give in and turn the heating on a little early. The good news is that, if your heating controls are set up properly, your boiler will only kick in when it’s truly needed. This means you can switch your heating back on when you think the weather’s getting nippy, and your boiler will only start working if your home drops below your desired temperature.

The key here is your thermostat. Setting it between 18°C and 21°C will ensure your heating doesn’t start running until it’s really needed. Plus, lowering your thermostat just a degree – say, from 22°C to 21°C – could save you around £90 a year in Oxfordshire. That’s a welcome saving in the face of rising energy bills, and it helps reduce carbon emissions too.

When’s the best time of day to use the heating?

If you’re wondering when to have the heating on during the day, it’s helpful to set it to start around half an hour before you wake up. This means you can rise and shine without that cold morning shock. And it’s a good idea to turn it off again about half an hour before bedtime, letting the warmth linger as you drift off.

Heading out for the day? Switch the heating off while the house is empty to save energy and cut costs. And when you’re back, you can easily warm things up again without wasting heat.

Should I leave the heating on all day?

If you’ve got a standard boiler, the answer is a clear no. Leaving the heating on all day will only drive up your energy bills. It’s far more efficient to let your boiler turn on and off as needed. But if you’ve got a heat pump, it’s a different story. Heat pumps can be more efficient if they run consistently, maintaining a steady temperature rather than warming up from scratch. If you’ve got one, check out our advice on optimising its efficiency.

Get your boiler ready for the chill

Even if you’re holding out on turning the heating on, it’s smart to make sure your boiler is ready for when you do. If you’ve switched it off over the summer, give it a quick test run now to catch any potential issues early. It’s also the perfect time to book your annual boiler service – don’t wait until the first frost when heating engineers are in high demand!

To get the most out of your heating system, you can also:

• Lower your boiler’s flow temperature.
• Clear space around radiators so they can circulate heat properly.
• Check your radiators and bleed them if you hear gurgling noises.
• Install radiator reflector panels, especially if you don’t have wall insulation.

Thinking about an upgrade?

Before winter fully sets in, it’s worth exploring whether you can make some upgrades to your central heating system. Small improvements can make your home cosier and help reduce those energy bills. And with energy prices still a concern, even a modest investment in efficiency can pay off.

Control the heating in each room: Thermostatic radiator valves (TRVs) let you adjust how much heat flows to each room, so you’re not wasting energy heating up spaces you rarely use. Lower the TRV in places like the hallway, and keep it a bit warmer in spaces like the living room or bedrooms.

Consider a smart thermostat: Smart heating controls can learn your schedule and adjust your heating to match. Many let you set a temperature schedule or control your heating through a phone app, so you’re never heating an empty house. Some models even adapt to the temperature outside, making your boiler more efficient.

Stay cosy and warm

Whether you’re the “hold out as long as possible” type or someone who loves to be toasty the moment it gets colder, getting your heating strategy right can make all the difference. It’s all about creating a home that’s snug, energy-efficient, and ready for whatever the weather throws at you. And by managing your heating thoughtfully, you can keep those energy bills in check while doing your bit for the planet.

For more ideas on how to keep your home warm in winter, cool in summer, and comfortable all year round, try our free energy-efficiency advice app. It offers personalised, long-term solutions to make your home as warm and energy-efficient as possible – whatever the season.